Articles published on Goal Attainment Scaling
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- Research Article
- Jun 25, 2026
- Nederlands tijdschrift voor geneeskunde
- Daniël O Strijbos + 4 more
To evaluate the effectiveness and costs of the Back At work After Surgery (BAAS) integrated care pathway for workers receiving knee arthroplasty in the Netherlands. Comparative cohort study of the BAAS cohort versus two usual-care cohorts. BAAS included explicit discussion of RTW in orthopedic consultations, workplace assessment, Goal Attainment Scaling, activity monitoring and an interdisciplinary online consult at 4-5 weeks postoperatively. Cohorts shared similar inclusion criteria and return-to-work and cost outcomes. Time to (full) RTW was analyzed with IPTW/Cox regression and costs with propensity score matching. Median time to first RTW was 27 days in BAAS versus 52 and 43 days in controls (HR 2.7 and 1.95). Full RTW took 183 versus 210 days (HR 1.4). Non-RTW within 12 months was 2% versus 16% and 13%. Intervention cost €845 with cost reductions of €4,493 per worker from employer perspective. BAAS accelerates return-to-work and delivers substantial economic benefits.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.1080/01942638.2026.2691064
- Jun 23, 2026
- Physical & Occupational Therapy In Pediatrics
- Sedanur Gurlek + 2 more
Aim To examine the effects of Action Observation Therapy (AOT) and Mirror Therapy (MT) on occupational performance, occupational satisfaction, goal-oriented activities, bilateral hand skills, and upper extremity functions in children with unilateral cerebral palsy (CP). Method This randomized controlled trial included 24 children with unilateral CP (12 AOT, 12 MT) aged 6–12 years. Both groups received 18 sessions over 6 wk (3 days/week), consisting of 30 min of Bilateral Activity Training (BAT) combined with 30 min of AOT or MT. Outcomes were assessed using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure, Goal Attainment Scale, Shriners Hospital Upper Extremity Evaluation, and ABILHAND questionnaire at baseline, post-intervention, and 1-month follow-up. Results Both groups showed significant improvements in occupational performance, satisfaction, goal attainment, bilateral hand skills, and upper extremity function after treatment (all p < 0.001) and at follow-up (AOT: p = 0.02–0.09; MT: p = 0.02–0.05). Although some variation in effect size estimates was observed across outcomes, between-group differences were not statistically significant (all p > 0.05). Interpretation AOT and MT, when combined with BAT, appear to be effective complementary interventions for improving upper extremity–related outcomes in children with unilateral CP. Trial Registration This study was registered as a Clinical Trial Number with the code NCT05951829.
- Research Article
- 10.1016/j.kint.2026.05.015
- Jun 18, 2026
- Kidney international
- Benignus Logan + 25 more
A cluster randomized controlled trial (GOAL trial) evaluated a comprehensive geriatric assessment for frail older people with chronic kidney disease.
- Research Article
- 10.1080/09638288.2026.2673742
- Jun 9, 2026
- Disability and Rehabilitation
- Claudia Krautkremer + 2 more
Purpose The purpose of this pilot clinical trial was to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of online table-top role-playing games (TTRPGs) as a treatment option for individuals receiving speech therapy for cognitive communication difficulties secondary to an acquired brain injury (ABI). Methods Five individuals with moderate-to-severe ABIs agreed to participate. Informal and norm-referenced assessments were administered pre-and-post treatment, including the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS), the LaTrobe Communication Questionnaire (LCQ), the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), and the Sydney Psychosocial Reintegration Scale (SPRS-2). Participants met virtually for two hours, once a week, for seven weeks. Individual goal progress was rated using Goal-Attainment Scaling (GAS). Participants’ utterances were transcribed and analyzed using Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL). Results Feasibility of this intervention was established by tenets laid out. For the primary outcome measure, generalized least squares model demonstrated individual GAS scores increased significantly by 0.24 (95% CI = 0.14–0.33). While pre- and post-formal assessment data comparisons did not reveal significant differences, SFL analysis revealed a positive change in participants’ communication. Conclusions TTRPGS are a feasible approach for addressing cognitive communication goals and improving social communication for individuals with ABI.
- Research Article
- 10.1186/s12891-026-10033-6
- May 29, 2026
- BMC musculoskeletal disorders
- Douglas Haladay + 6 more
Low back pain is a widespread health concern in the United States. Traditional measures used for low back pain may lack meaningfulness to patients and be unable to capture patient's individual experience. This study aimed to examine the feasibility of a goal attainment scaling application for chronic low back pain patients (GAS-Back) and the nature of goals identified by patients with chronic low back pain (cLBP) receiving physical therapist (PT) care. This feasibility study consists of a single-group, longitudinal, preliminary study with variation in baseline, intervention, and follow-up for each participant. It was conducted at the University of South Florida Health Physical Therapy Center (USF PT Center) in Tampa, FL. Convenience sampling was used to recruit potential participants. Thirty-three participants (n = 33) with cLBP, ranging from 21 to 64 years old, were enrolled in this study and completed GAS-Back in PT care. The primary outcomes of this study were GAS-Back training time (hours), GAS-Back implementation time (minutes and seconds), PT adherence (percent adherence to protocol), interrater reliability, and patient satisfaction and engagement. Secondary outcomes were the domain and subdomain for the nature of goals identified (percentages) according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) categorization. GAS-Back clinician training time (7h) and the average GAS-Back implementation time (9min 9s) were both considered to be efficient. Clinician adherence (89%) was considered feasible. High interrater reliability was observed for both GAS-Back goal comparison (95%) and GAS T-Score comparison (0.782). The majority of patient's (93%) noted "Very Good" or "Excellent" satisfaction and PTs (63%) observed mostly "Very Good" or "Excellent" patient engagement with GAS-Back. Participants set an average of 3 goals to which majority of participants (88%) identified at least one goal pertaining to activity limitations. This study demonstrates the feasibility and fidelity of using GAS-Back for patients with cLBP receiving PT care.
- Research Article
- 10.2147/prom.s569608
- May 27, 2026
- Patient Related Outcome Measures
- Gunes Sevinc + 5 more
PurposeGoal Attainment Scaling (GAS) is a personalized outcome measure that evaluates treatment response based on patient- and caregiver-prioritized goals, offering a structured yet flexible framework for assessing meaningful change. Although GAS is increasingly applied in clinical trials, its implementation remains inconsistent, and the perspectives of clinicians and researchers who use it in practice remain poorly understood. This study explored the experiences of clinicians and researchers with GAS to better understand how it is operationalized, the challenges encountered, and opportunities to improve its consistency and utility in patient-centered care and research.Participants and MethodsSemi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 clinicians and academics from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia who had experience using GAS in clinical or research settings. Data were analyzed thematically using the Framework Method, with coding conducted inductively and supported by NVivo 12.ResultsParticipants valued GAS for capturing outcomes most meaningful to patients and demonstrating treatment responsiveness in heterogeneous conditions. However, clinician resistance, time demands, limited familiarity, and variability in implementation across settings were identified as key challenges. Education, peer advocacy, and digital tools were suggested as strategies to improve feasibility and consistency.ConclusionClinicians and researchers view GAS as a valuable patient-centered outcome measure but highlight variability in implementation as a barrier to broader adoption. Guidelines for GAS implementation, training, and supportive tools may strengthen the use of GAS in both clinical practice and research, ultimately improving the measurement of outcomes that matter most to patients.
- Research Article
- 10.1002/pmrj.70156
- May 27, 2026
- PM & R : the journal of injury, function, and rehabilitation
- Fraser Macrae + 2 more
Evaluating the efficacy of obturator cryoneurolysis for hip adductor spasticity: An observational, prospective study.
- Research Article
- 10.1186/s12872-026-05953-z
- May 18, 2026
- BMC Cardiovascular Disorders
- Willy Gr\Xe4Fe + 5 more
BackgroundCardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death worldwide, with lifestyle-related risk factors such as unhealthy diet, physical inactivity or smoking playing a crucial role. Patient-centred care, which actively engages patients in setting and achieving their health goals, has become increasingly important in treatment and prevention. The Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS) provides a structured method to assess individual goal attainment and satisfaction. This study examines the frequency, attainment, and satisfaction with health goals among patients with at least one lifestyle-related risk factor for CVD within the DECADE intervention. The primary objective of the DECADE intervention was to improve patients’ self-management to reduce their cardiovascular disease risk. One part of the study involved assessing health goals.MethodsThe cluster-randomised controlled DECADE study consisted of four study arms. The intervention groups (IG) received evidence-based health materials (IG1) and/or patient-centred follow-up consultations (IG2 and IG3). The control group (CG) received at the beginning (t0) of the intervention and after 12 months (t2) a CVD risk assessment like the intervention groups. The analysis sample comprises n = 712. Health goals, their attainment (6-point Likert scale, 0 = not achieved at all/worse than before to 5 = more achieved than before), and satisfaction with goal attainment (5-point Likert Scale, 1 = very satisfied – 5 = very dissatisfied) took place after 6 months (t1) and t2. GAS values were analysed using means, medians and group differences using Kruskal-Wallis tests.ResultsThe participants reported a median of six health goals at t1 and t2. The most frequently set goals were healthy diet, regular physical activity, and weight reduction. While most patients reported achieving healthy diet and physical activity goals, weight reduction was less frequently attained. Despite largely attaining their goals (mediant1=2.74 [0.33-5.00]; mediant2=2.71 [0.00–5.00]), patients reported that they were only partially satisfied with their results (mediant1=2.80 [1.00–5.00]; mediant2=2.75 [1.00–5.00]). Patients receiving follow-up consultations (IG2 and IG3) showed significantly higher GAS scores at t2 than those in groups without consultations (CG and IG1) (medianIG2=2.80; medianIG3=2.86 vs. medianCG=2.50; medianIG1=2.58, p = 0.004). No gender- or income-specific differences were found, but regional differences emerged: Patients in Dresden had significantly higher GAS scores and were more satisfied compared to those in Hamburg and Freiburg (p < 0.001).ConclusionThe findings highlight the potential of patient-centred consultations and the promotion of individual health goals in the treatment and in the prevention of CVD. Follow-up consultations positively influence goal attainment, emphasizing the need for structured patient-centred communication. Interestingly achieving health goals did not correspond to satisfaction of the patients.Trial registrationThe DECADE-study is registered in the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS-ID: DRKS00025401; Trial registration date: 2021/06/21) and in the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP): https://trialsearch.who.int/Trial2.aspx?TrialID=DRKS00025401.
- Research Article
- 10.1080/09638288.2026.2672265
- May 18, 2026
- Disability and Rehabilitation
- Elizabeth Asige + 7 more
Purpose To describe the implementation of goal-directed therapy (GDT) and provision of assistive devices (ADs) within the Akwenda Intervention Program, a structured community-based rehabilitation program, and to examine goal attainment, AD use, and caregiver perspectives in a rural setting in eastern Uganda. Materials and methods This study included 50 children and young people aged 2–23 years with cerebral palsy. The intervention formed part of an 11-month multi-component program including caregiver training, therapist-led sessions, communication and advocacy, GDT, and AD-provision. Therapists received structured training in collaborative goal setting using Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS). ADs, including wheelchairs, standing frames, posture support chairs, walkers, orthoses, and toileting devices, were provided with training and follow-up. Goal attainment was evaluated using GAS, while AD use and caregiver satisfaction were assessed through usage diaries and a structured questionnaire. Results A total of 146 goals were set, of which 63% were achieved. Most goals targeted activity (56%) and participation (32%). Participants with milder motor impairments demonstrated higher goal attainment than those with more severe impairments (p = 0.04). Goal attainment was moderately associated with reduced caregiver assistance in self-care (r = 0.41, p = 0.006) and reduced caregiver burden (r = 0.40, p = 0.008), but not with other child-related outcomes. Twenty-four participants received 66 ADs, of which 85% remained in use after six months. Caregiver satisfaction exceeded 80% across domains. Conclusion GDT and AD-provision were feasible to implement within a community-based rehabilitation program in a rural Ugandan setting, supporting meaningful functional outcomes.
- Research Article
- 10.1097/pxr.0000000000000546
- May 18, 2026
- Prosthetics and orthotics international
- Natiara Mohamad Hashim + 4 more
The use of 3-dimensional (3D) printing in the development of assistive adaptive devices (AADs) and prostheses has expanded rapidly, offering opportunities for patient-specific customization and iterative design. Despite this growth, there remains limited guidance on how 3D printing can be systematically integrated into routine clinical practice within a multidisciplinary rehabilitation framework. This case series presents a goal-oriented, multidisciplinary approach for the clinical implementation of 3D printing in the development of AAD and prostheses. Seven customized AAD or prosthetic devices were developed through collaboration between a rehabilitation physician, an occupational therapist, and a mechanical engineer. Device recommendation and design were guided by predefined patient-centered functional goals. Outcomes were evaluated using goal attainment scale, allowing individualized assessment relative to each patient's baseline function and intended device purpose. Across the 7 cases, the fabricated devices achieved their predefined functional goals to varying degrees, reflecting the heterogeneity of impairments and individual priorities. The application of goal attainment scale enabled structured outcome evaluation while preserving patient-centered goal individualization. This study demonstrates the feasibility of implementing a multidisciplinary, goal-oriented framework that integrates 3D printing into clinical rehabilitation practice, supporting the translation of patient needs into functional assistive and prosthetic solutions.
- Research Article
- 10.1186/s41687-026-01082-5
- May 16, 2026
- Journal of patient-reported outcomes
- Catherine A Clair + 2 more
Caregivers often serve as proxies for patients or inform patient-caregiver dyadic findings in interventions. We conducted a randomized waitlist control pilot of a caregiver support program focused on caregivers (not dyads): Heart Failure and Stroke Resilience Intervention for Caregivers (HEROIC). Goal attainment scaling (GAS) was used to measure goal progress and achievement; this measure is person-centered but has not been used to test prior caregiving interventions. HEROIC was tested in a pilot study. Participants were randomized to immediate intervention or waitlist control groups. GAS data was collected at baseline, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks and a final interview to assess feasibility and acceptability was conducted at 24 weeks. Raw GAS data was converted to t-scores. We compared goal achievement for the overall sample, by group assignment (immediate intervention vs. waitlist control), and by goal domain. Two questions in the final interview focused on acceptability and feasibility of GAS were summarized. Fifty caregivers were consented, and 31 completed baseline data collection. Caregivers (n = 31) were on average 58 years old (SD: 11), 84% identified as female and 45% identified as Black. Twenty-six participants completed GAS at 12 weeks, and 19 participants completed GAS at 24 weeks. Twenty-one (80.8%) and 16 (84.2%) caregivers met or exceeded their goal at 12 weeks and 24 weeks respectively. For the immediate intervention group, the mean change in scores pre-post intervention was 19.1 (SD: 9.4), ranging from 0 to 30. For the waitlist control group, the mean change in scores pre-post intervention was 13.8 (SD: 10.6), ranging from 0 to 30. For the immediate intervention group during their maintenance period (12 to 24 weeks), the mean change in scores was 20.9 (SD: 11.4), ranging from 0 to 30. All 19 caregivers were interviewed at 24 weeks and reported that GAS was simple to complete and reported satisfaction with the activity. For clinical trials, GAS may serve as a key outcome and provide rich effectiveness data. While GAS represents investment of time and resources, the approach is valuable. We recommend future research to inform streamlining GAS while maintaining its person-centeredness. ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03963583, Registered 24 May 2019, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03963583?term=Heart%25;20Failure%25;20Resilience%25;20Intervention%25;20for%25;20Caregivers%25;20(HEROIC)%26;rank=1.
- Research Article
- 10.1080/01942638.2026.2661744
- May 8, 2026
- Physical & Occupational Therapy In Pediatrics
- Karin Eldred + 5 more
Aims To evaluate the effects of a community-based power training program on goal performance, satisfaction, and attainment; gross motor function (gait speed and walking capacity); and anaerobic capacity in youth with CP. Methods In this pre-post prospective cohort pilot study, youth with CP participated in a goal-focused, 12-week, community-based power-training program delivered by physical therapists, fitness professionals, and student volunteers. Outcomes were measured using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure, Goal Attainment Scaling, the 10-meter walk test, the 1-min walk test, and the Muscle Power Sprint Test. Wilcoxon Signed Rank tests were used to evaluate pre-post differences and effect sizes were calculated. Results Statistically significant differences and large effect sizes were observed for all outcomes, with the exception of the 1-min walk test. Conclusions Community-based power training programs show promise as an alternative approach to individual interventions provided in clinical settings for enhancing goal related outcomes, gross motor function, and anaerobic capacity in youth with CP. This approach has the potential to increase participation in community-based exercise and improve physical health of youth with disabilities.
- Research Article
- 10.2196/93234
- May 4, 2026
- JMIR research protocols
- Marjan Coremans + 12 more
Chronic stroke and spinal cord injury (SCI) lead to persistent motor impairments that reduce independence and quality of life. Although rehabilitation is essential to address these challenges, the amount of therapy provided during the chronic phase remains limited, while the long-term costs of care are substantial. The INTeRAcT (Intensive Rehabilitation Programme Integrating Advanced Technology) trial investigates a high-dose, intensive-targeted, and personalized rehabilitation program through an integrated clinical, health economic, and process evaluation. This single-blind randomized controlled trial will include 100 adults in the chronic phase after stroke or SCI. Participants will be randomized to either the INTeRAcT intervention group (n=50) or a control group receiving usual care (n=50). The intervention group will receive 90 hours of personalized motor rehabilitation over 3 weeks, including upper and lower limb therapy, with and without technology, cardiovascular fitness training, and self-management education. Both groups then resume usual care and are followed for 9 months. Clinical assessments are performed at baseline (T0), after 3 weeks (T1, postintervention), and after 9-months follow-up (T2) by a blinded assessor. The primary outcome is independence in daily life, assessed using the Functional Independence Measure for stroke and the Spinal Cord Independence Measure for SCI. Secondary outcomes include the EQ-5D-5L, Canadian Occupational Performance Measure, Goal Attainment Scaling, Fatigue Severity Scale, and stroke-specific measures such as the Action Research Arm Test, Fugl-Meyer Assessment, 6-Minute and 10-Meter Walk-Test, and the Stroke Self-Efficacy Questionnaire. Group differences in clinical change will be analyzed using multivariate linear models. Health economic data will be collected using diaries and questionnaires, capturing direct and indirect costs. Cost-effectiveness will be assessed through a trial-based cost-utility analysis over 9 months and a Markov model over a lifetime horizon. The process evaluation follows the UK Medical Research Council framework, using mixed methods with quantitative and qualitative data from diaries, interviews, and observations, analyzed descriptively and thematically. The funding of the project started in February 2023. Protocol version 5 (accepted March 15, 2024). Participant recruitment occurred between June 2023 and September 2024, with a total of 102 participants enrolled. Data collection ended in July 2025. Data analysis is ongoing. This protocol outlines a randomized controlled trial integrating clinical, health economic, and process evaluations to assess a high-dose, individualized rehabilitation program. The findings will provide evidence on effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and implementation feasibility in chronic stroke and SCI, supporting the optimization of long-term neurorehabilitation care.
- Research Article
- 10.1016/j.rmed.2026.108800
- May 1, 2026
- Respiratory medicine
- Sara Souto-Miranda + 3 more
Capturing what people with COPD want: a systematic review of goal-oriented measurement instruments.
- Research Article
- 10.1016/j.msksp.2026.103573
- May 1, 2026
- Musculoskeletal science & practice
- A Carlien Straat + 8 more
Economic evaluation alongside the multicenter randomized controlled ACTIVE trial: cost-effectiveness of an integrated personalized eHealth program for working-age knee arthroplasty patients.
- Research Article
- 10.1016/j.msard.2026.107100
- May 1, 2026
- Multiple sclerosis and related disorders
- Andreas Wanitschek + 15 more
Improved understanding of effective therapeutic interventions (TI) is required to optimise mobility outcomes in people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) undergoing multidisciplinary neurological rehabilitation (MNR). The primary objective was to explore clinically meaningful effects of active TI on mobility during inpatient MNR. Secondary objectives were to assess mobility-related goal attainment and to develop and evaluate a standardised TI documentation catalogue. A TI catalogue and manual were developed and refined based on moderate interrater reliability from 12 video-recorded therapy sessions rated by eight clinicians. Usability was assessed by 47 physiotherapists using the System Usability Scale (SUS). Mobility outcomes included the 12-item Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale (MSWS-12), 2-Minute Walk Test (2 MWT), Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test (5-TSTS), and Timed 25-Foot Walk. Effect sizes were calculated for individual and group-based TI. Goal attainment was measured using Goal Attainment Scaling. The TI catalogue showed good usability (mean SUS score 72.3). Significant improvements were observed across all mobility outcomes, with clinically meaningful changes for MSWS-12, 2MWT and 5-TSTS. Gait training variants, robot-assisted gait training, strength, task-oriented, dual-task, endurance, coordination, and balance training showed medium-to-large effect sizes. Goal achievers demonstrated significantly greater improvements in walking perception, speed, and distance than non-achievers, with no difference in sit-to-stand performance. Over 88% of 255 pwMS achieved or exceeded their therapy goals. The TI catalogue is a reliable and practical tool for documenting TI in routine MNR. Several interventions, particularly stair gait training, strength training, and robot-assisted gait training, were associated with clinically meaningful mobility improvements in pwMS. The study was prospectively registered with the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00025216 and DRKS00030391).
- Research Article
- 10.5014/ajot.2026.051459
- May 1, 2026
- The American journal of occupational therapy : official publication of the American Occupational Therapy Association
- Erika Kemp + 3 more
There is a critical need for therapeutic water competency (water safety and swim skills) interventions tailored to meet the needs of children on the autism spectrum, a group that is at high risk for drowning. To examine the effect of AquOTic on caregiver- and therapist-based water competency goals for children on the autism spectrum. Pre-post cohort design based on a larger randomized controlled trial. County Board of Developmental Disabilities therapy pool. Children on the autism spectrum (N = 37; 28 boys) ages 5 to 9 yr were recruited from the local community. AquOTic is a manualized 10-wk occupational therapy-based water competency intervention for children on the autism spectrum. AquOTic incorporates evidence-based therapeutic techniques and embeds individualized therapy (interventionist-child dyads) in a group environment. Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) and Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS) were completed at baseline and post intervention. Children showed significantly higher GAS T scores and COPM Performance and Satisfaction scores post-AquOTic compared with baseline (effect size d = 2.1-2.3). All goals mapped onto the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (4th ed.), with motor skills emerging as the most common category for both caregiver- and therapist-derived goals, followed by safety awareness in the aquatic environment and sensory functions. Children on the autism spectrum demonstrated improved caregiver- and therapist-based water competency goals following the AquOTic intervention. Plain-Language Summary: This study examined the effect of AquOTic, an occupational therapy-based intervention, on parent/caregiver- and therapist-based goals related to water safety and swim skills among children on the autism spectrum. Caregivers identified goals for their children, and therapists developed goals that guided the intervention. After completing the 10-wk intervention, children showed improvements in both caregiver perceptions of their performance and satisfaction with goals set as well as therapist-rated goals. Our results highlight the value and effectiveness of an occupational therapy-based water competency intervention to improve water competency among children on the autism spectrum.
- Research Article
- 10.5014/ajot.2026.051508
- May 1, 2026
- The American journal of occupational therapy : official publication of the American Occupational Therapy Association
- Natalie R Schiano + 7 more
Families of autistic children with sensory needs who live in rural areas and places where in-person visits are not possible may benefit from additional therapy delivery options. To assess parents' and therapists' acceptability of a telehealth delivery of occupational therapy using Ayres Sensory Integration® (OT-ASI) and to evaluate preliminary changes in children's daily life skills and autism symptoms. One-group pilot feasibility trial. Telehealth delivery to the home environment. Families (N = 6) with children ages 4 to 12 yr, diagnosed with autism and sensory difficulties, able to follow simple directions, willing to participate in 10 telehealth sessions, willing to complete pre and post measures, and with access to Wi-Fi-enabled devices. Telehealth delivery of 10 OT-ASI sessions. Sensory feature measures included the Sensory Processing Measure and a sensory screening tool adapted from the Evaluation of Ayres Sensory Integration®. Parent measures included goal attainment scaling, Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory Computer Adaptive Test, and Pervasive Developmental Disorders Behavior Inventory. The fidelity measure was adapted from the ASI® Fidelity Measure. Acceptability and feasibility were evaluated via semistructured interviews with parents and therapists. Parents and interventionists were highly satisfied with OT-ASI and indicated that it was feasible to deliver. Children improved in individualized goals and functional skills as well as socialization and showed a decrease in overall autism symptomatology. Telehealth delivery of OT-ASI is feasible and acceptable while maintaining strong fidelity. It can extend the reach and impact of occupational therapy services to autistic children and their families, particularly those facing barriers to in-person care. Plain-Language Summary: Many autistic children process or respond to sensation differently from other children, which can affect their participation in daily life activities. Occupational therapy using Ayres Sensory Integration® (OT-ASI) is an evidence-based intervention that can help these children participate more fully in daily life activities and reach personal goals. During the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, the OT-ASI intervention was updated for online delivery. This online approach was rated by parents and interventionists as feasible and helpful. Children met goals and improved social communication and responsibility skills. More research is needed to confirm and expand on these results.
- Research Article
- 10.2340/jrm.v58.45139
- Apr 28, 2026
- Journal of rehabilitation medicine
- Lynne Turner-Stokes + 6 more
This post-hoc analysis evaluated how goal attainment evolved over repeated cycles of botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) treatment in adults with upper-limb spasticity. ULIS-III (NCT02454803) was a 2-year observational study involving adults treated with BoNT-A. The analysis included 538 patients who received ≥ 4 BoNT-A injection cycles and had Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS) assessments for each of the first 4 cycles. GAS T-scores were used to measure treatment response. Multivariate models assessed predictors of achieving a GAS T-score ≥ 50 and being in the top tertile (best) of responders. Patients generally maintained consistent goal domains across cycles. Mean change in GAS T-scores remained above the minimal clinically important difference of 10 throughout. The proportion of patients achieving a GAS T-score ≥ 50 increased from 64.5% in Cycle 1 to 75.8% in Cycle4. Use of injection guidance techniques significantly increased the odds of achieving treatment goals (OR 1.92; 95% CI 1.45-2.55) and being a "best" responder (OR 2.44; 95% CI 1.47-4.06). Higher BoNT-A doses were also associated with better outcomes. Repeated BoNT-A treatment supports sustained goal attainment in upper limb spasticity. Success rates improve with each cycle, particularly when guided injection techniques are used.
- Research Article
- 10.1177/01454455261421147
- Apr 21, 2026
- Behavior Modification
- Grace Kirby + 5 more
Evaluating psychosocial outcomes in families of children with chronic health conditions is complicated by heterogeneity in impact across and within conditions. This study used goal attainment scaling to assess individual families’ progress towards child behaviour goals following brief parenting support for families of children (2–11 years) with phenylketonuria (PKU). Twelve hospital-recruited families nominated up to two behaviour goals and completed baseline monitoring before attending two 2-hr Healthy Living Triple P group sessions. Monitoring was repeated at 4-weeks post-intervention and 4-month follow-up. Families reported partial or complete success on 20 of 23 goals by follow-up. Nine goals were PKU-related, focusing on formula intake for younger children and dietary independence for older children; 14 were general, targeting aggression/non-compliance in younger children, with older children’s goals more varied. Goal attainment scaling is feasible and effective for monitoring progress towards individually tailored child behaviour goals, with potential applications in research and clinical care.